Maternal Health Awareness Day: Donor Egg IVF Wellness Tips

Maternal health, the well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the post-partum period, is vital for the health and prosperity of both the mother and baby. This is why every January 23rd since 2021, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and their partners celebrate Maternal Health Awareness Day across the United States, raising awareness for maternal health, care, and access to care.

When discussing maternal health, it is important to acknowledge the various paths to parenthood that are available to intended parents today. In some cases, individuals or couples may choose assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the use of frozen donor eggs. These reproductive technologies are important for maternal health, as they allow intended parents to conceive in situations where it would otherwise be impossible or especially challenging due to factors like infertility, age, or other health conditions. These choices empower intended parents to overcome physical, emotional, and social barriers on their personal path to parenthood.

What is IVF?

IVF is a procedure in which the patient takes fertility medication to stimulate the ovaries, causing multiple eggs to grow and mature. Once the eggs are retrieved, they are fertilized with sperm in a lab. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the uterus, with pregnancy occurring once the embryo attaches to the uterine lining.

How Does Donor Egg IVF Work?

In some cases, an individual or couple may choose to use donor eggs. Donor eggs may be used by intended parents who have struggled with starting a family due to female factor infertility or other infertility causes, as well as by same-sex couples who are looking for an egg donor. Frozen donor eggs are often a more cost-effective option than fresh donor eggs and allow greater flexibility for recipients, as they do not need to synchronize their cycle with their egg donor. At Fairfax EggBank, donors listed in our egg donor database have already had their eggs retrieved, making them readily available to be shipped, thawed, and used at your convenience, whenever you’re ready. When using frozen donor eggs, the egg donor undergoes thorough screening before beginning the egg retrieval process. They will also take ovarian stimulation medication to prepare for the egg retrieval procedure. Once an intended parent has chosen and paid for their donor egg cohort, the frozen eggs will be shipped to their IVF clinic where fertilization and transfer will occur.

Supporting the health and well-being of both mother and baby is crucial, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional wellness. This is particularly vital for women undergoing the IVF process, as self-care techniques can help them feel more in control of their bodies. At Fairfax EggBank, we are dedicated to helping families grow, which is why we’ve compiled these tips to promote maternal health for women using an egg donor during IVF.

Tip 1: Work Closely with Your Healthcare Providers

This one probably goes without saying, but we thought it was worth mentioning due to the physical, emotional, and logistical support healthcare providers offer to ensure a healthy pregnancy. Healthcare providers ensure that the mother’s health is optimized during pregnancy, monitoring for potential complications and ensuring the pregnancy is progressing normally. Having a dedicated healthcare team that you work with throughout your path to parenthood also allows for personalized care.

After birth, healthcare providers play a vital role in the care for both mother and baby. They offer guidance on early childhood care and support the overall well-being of both.

Tip 2: Nurture Your Physical Health

Nurturing your physical health during pregnancy is essential for both mother and baby. Maintaining and nurturing your physical health starts with a well-balanced diet and ensuring an adequate intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and energy to facilitate healthy fetal development.

Exercise and physical activity are beneficial for maternal health, physically and mentally. Physical activity during pregnancy helps reduce stress, improve circulation, and alleviate some common pregnancy discomforts, such as back pain and swelling.

That being said, rest is just as important as physical activity to ensure overall well-being. Hormonal changes and physical discomfort can have a negative impact on sleep. Don’t be afraid to take short naps when needed to recharge physically and mentally.

By focusing on balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and rest, you can better manage your physical health and ensure that both you and your baby are well-supported during this time. Additionally, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new regimen to ensure that it aligns with your specific health and pregnancy needs.

Tip 3: Prioritize Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being

Prioritizing mental health and emotional well-being during your path to parenthood, especially through egg donation, is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and positive start to parenting. The emotional journey can be complex, with feelings such as loss, grief, or anxiety. Recognizing and acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward managing them. Concerns about not feeling “connected” to the child or how they will perceive their origins are common, but it’s important to remember that the love, care, and support you provide are the key factors in the child’s development, regardless of genetic links.

To reduce stress and anxiety, give yourself grace and care. Practices like meditation or deep breathing can promote relaxation and well-being. Staying connected to your sense of self and engaging in activities you enjoy can also help foster a positive emotional environment.

Having a solid support system is vital during this process. Surround yourself with loved ones—partners, friends, or family—and consider joining a community of others who have gone through or are currently navigating the egg donation journey. There are many resources available for parents of donor-conceived children, offering valuable support and reassurance:

• Resolve
• Donor Conceived Community
• ASRM
• Donor Conception Network

Tip 4: Focus on Building Your Bond with Your Baby

One of the most rewarding aspects of parenthood is building a bond with your baby. While egg donation may present some unique emotional challenges, it does not alter your ability to form a strong emotional bond with your child. You can start nurturing that connection even before birth by talking to your baby, listening to calming music together, or practicing gentle touch.

Whether it’s through prenatal activities or post-birth care, you will develop your unique relationship with your child based on love, care, and nurturing, rather than genetics. The bond you share with your child will be built on the countless moments of care, affection, and attention you give them, which will help establish a sense of security and trust between you that will last a lifetime.

Every path to parenthood is unique, and integrating these wellness tips with the guidance of a healthcare provider can help ensure a positive and healthy experience for both parent and baby. On this Maternal Health Awareness Day, it’s essential to recognize the unique journey of all parents. Whether you’re carrying a pregnancy conceived through egg donation or supporting someone who is, prioritizing maternal health is vital for both the mother and the baby. By embracing self-care, seeking regular healthcare, maintaining physical health, and prioritizing mental and emotional health, intended parents can ensure a healthier and more fulfilling journey to parenthood.